Who needs a certified food protection manager in Virginia?

Issued by Virginia Department of Health (12VAC5-421-55), at step 4 of 6 in the opening sequence: get the permits for your kind of business.

9 of the 20 kinds of business in Virginia

At least one employee with management and supervisory responsibility holds a food protection manager certificate from an accredited program, and the person in charge must be able to demonstrate food safety knowledge at every inspection.

Checked Oct 21, 2026 against the agency’s page.

Step 4 of 6: Get the permits for your kind of business

  1. Set up the business
  2. Register for tax
  3. Approve the space
  4. Get the permits for your kind of business
  5. Alcohol permits
  6. Before the first hire

Issued by Virginia Department of Health (12VAC5-421-55).

Sources and dates

Virginia Food Regulations, certified food protection manager requirement. Checked against the agency’s page on the date shown; cities add their own fees.

Questions about opening here.